Hello! I am Zee Han and I am new to the forum :). I am currently applying to an undergraduate program of Electrical and Electronic Engineering in Nanyang Technological University of Singapore, and I plan to apply for a scholarship. The following is the question for my 300-words scholarship essay:
"Using specific examples, reflect on a critical moment in your leadership journey where you faced a conflict that not only tested your values but also challenged the beliefs of those you were leading. Describe the specific context, including the cultural and social dynamics at play, and the dilemma you experienced. Explain the rationale behind your decision-making process and the strategies you employed to navigate the differing perspectives within your group. Analyze the short and long-term impacts of your actions on both the individuals involved and your own development as a leader. Lastly, discuss how this experience has reshaped your understanding of accountability and your aspirations for future leadership roles. "
And below is my essay. Any suggestion is much appreciated!
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This conflict taught me to strive for team excellence, but not perfection. In 2023, as Drama Club's Vice President, I was responsible of leading a six-person talk show. The social dynamic was defined by our lack of experiences and anxiety stemming from pandemic disruptions. Initially, I idealized our capability, and kept demanding in pursue of perfection, which influenced the team's expectation towards ourselves. Soon enough, our confidence shattered after comparing ourselves to other performers. A conflict soon erupted. One member blamed others, while some expressed guilt. This situation challenged my core belief that I can lead a team to perfection.
My dilemma was between enforcing discipline or slowing things down. After careful consideration, I decided to prioritize the latter, as without unified efforts, no improvement was possible. My strategy was to separate and validate: I isolated the frustrated member to recognize her effort, and remind others that the show is our shared responsibility.
In the short term, this restored calm and unified the team toward extra practices. Our eventual performance didn't match our expectation, but as a result we continue to strive for excellence. Long-term, the rebuilt trust empowered us to continue performing, establishing club's annual tradition of holding drama performances.
This experience reshaped my understanding of accountability from a singular focus on outcome to a dual responsibility for both the task and the team's mental state. I learnt that good leaders aren't defined by the results they achieved with the team, but rather how well they hold the team together to give continuous effort. I now aspire to be a leader that can contribute in building a team equipped with trust, respect and diligence, and recognizes work results as follow up rewards to further propel the team's excellence.
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Thanks again for your feedback!
"Using specific examples, reflect on a critical moment in your leadership journey where you faced a conflict that not only tested your values but also challenged the beliefs of those you were leading. Describe the specific context, including the cultural and social dynamics at play, and the dilemma you experienced. Explain the rationale behind your decision-making process and the strategies you employed to navigate the differing perspectives within your group. Analyze the short and long-term impacts of your actions on both the individuals involved and your own development as a leader. Lastly, discuss how this experience has reshaped your understanding of accountability and your aspirations for future leadership roles. "
And below is my essay. Any suggestion is much appreciated!
~
This conflict taught me to strive for team excellence, but not perfection. In 2023, as Drama Club's Vice President, I was responsible of leading a six-person talk show. The social dynamic was defined by our lack of experiences and anxiety stemming from pandemic disruptions. Initially, I idealized our capability, and kept demanding in pursue of perfection, which influenced the team's expectation towards ourselves. Soon enough, our confidence shattered after comparing ourselves to other performers. A conflict soon erupted. One member blamed others, while some expressed guilt. This situation challenged my core belief that I can lead a team to perfection.
My dilemma was between enforcing discipline or slowing things down. After careful consideration, I decided to prioritize the latter, as without unified efforts, no improvement was possible. My strategy was to separate and validate: I isolated the frustrated member to recognize her effort, and remind others that the show is our shared responsibility.
In the short term, this restored calm and unified the team toward extra practices. Our eventual performance didn't match our expectation, but as a result we continue to strive for excellence. Long-term, the rebuilt trust empowered us to continue performing, establishing club's annual tradition of holding drama performances.
This experience reshaped my understanding of accountability from a singular focus on outcome to a dual responsibility for both the task and the team's mental state. I learnt that good leaders aren't defined by the results they achieved with the team, but rather how well they hold the team together to give continuous effort. I now aspire to be a leader that can contribute in building a team equipped with trust, respect and diligence, and recognizes work results as follow up rewards to further propel the team's excellence.
~
Thanks again for your feedback!
